If you are talking about something that is generally true now or a current state, use "know. "Know" functions as the present tense, describing current awareness or familiarity, while "knew" serves as the simple past tense, indicating knowledge acquired in the past.
Know vs Knew Grammar Quick Ref: Understand the Key Difference
When you use "knew," you are referencing a specific moment or period that is no longer current. It is a staple of everyday conversation and writing, used to assert understanding or familiarity in the here and now.
The correct example maintains a past tense framework, clearly indicating that the knowing happened in the past. Consider these examples of "know" in action: I know the answer to that question.
Know vs Knew Grammar Quick Ref: Understand the Past Tense
Understanding the distinction between know and knew is fundamental to mastering English grammar, as these forms represent different points in time. Conversely, using "know" when describing a past event can make the narrative feel disjointed or inaccurate.
More About Know or knew
Looking at Know or knew from another angle can help expand the discussion and give readers a second clear paragraph under the same section.
More perspective on Know or knew can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.
